Identity, obeisance and the image of God in selected rap songs

Abstract

The exploration of identity, obeisance, and the image of God within rap songs reveals a fascinating intersection of personal narrative, cultural homage, and spiritual inquiry. Drawing on a range of rap songs spanning different eras and sub-genres, it examines how artistes navigate questions of selfhood, reverence and spirituality within the framework of hip-hop culture. Through the instrumentation of lyrical analysis and thematic exploration, the paper examines how rap music serves as a platform for artistes to assert their individuality, pay homage to cultural influences, and grapple with existential questions. It probes into how the image of God is depicted and interpreted within the concept of rap, considering both traditional religious themes and secular interpretations. It concludes that the multifaceted representations of identity and spirituality in rap lyrics offers insights into the broader cultural and social dynamics at play within the genre.